In honor of the opening of its new emergency shelter— Cherese’s Safe Home— which is expected to open by the end of the summer, and its 41 years of providing supportive services in Long Beach, WomenShelter of Long Beach (WSLB) will host its annual gala at the Long Beach Convention Center in the Pacific Gallery, from 5:30pm to 9:30pm on Wednesday, April 25. The new shelter will provide safety and support to those fleeing abuse and violence, regardless of gender, according to WSLB.
At the gala, WSLB will recognize four honorees, all of whom have contributed to and improved the lives of victims throughout the community, according to the nonprofit organization.
Wendi McLendon-Covey and Greg Covey will receive the Philanthropist Award, Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn will receive the Protector Award, and Cherese Mari Laulhere, in memoriam, will be honored with the Legacy Award.
“The contributions, advocacy and support that each of these individuals have provided has helped WSLB deliver critical intervention, life-saving education and crisis support to thousands of victims,” states a press release from WSLB.
“We cannot thank each one of our honorees enough for all they do for WomenShelter and our families,” said WSLB Executive Director Mary Ellen Mitchell. “Our honorees are leaders in our community. They represent hope and have made a direct impact on the lives of many people.”
The event program will focus on the importance of supporting and educating the youth within the community.
“It is our responsibility to provide our youth with information so that they understand that a healthy relationship is built upon trust and understanding, not jealousy and control,” said WSLB Board President Kristi Fischer. “This is the only way that we can ensure that the next generation builds healthy relationships. This is how we at WSLB plan to change the future.”
In the spirit of this event, WomenShelter will launch its new scholarship program, Opportunities Abound. As part of the gala presentation, Ellis Sanchez, a WSLB youth survivor, will receive the inaugural award, which is a scholarship to assist him with his academic pursuits.
The event will include a dinner, silent-auction items, opportunity drawings and a vocal performance.
The community is invited to attend. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased online at wslb.org or by contacting Tatiana Dorman at TDorman@wslb.org or (562) 437-7233, ext.27. All proceeds will benefit WomenShelter of Long Beach’s victim-supportive services and educational programs.
